Manningtree Library receives book returned 44 years overdue

A copy of Great Prime Ministers was handed in at Manningtree Library, in Essex

A copy of the book Great Prime Ministers has been returned to a library despite being 44 years overdue.

The book, by John Whittle, was due back on 30 June 1979 and had not been seen since.

But staff at Manningtree Library, in Essex, were left "so excited" when it was returned by the customer's family last week.

Michele Price, who supervises the library, said it was in "fantastic condition" and a late fee was waived.

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Ten different UK prime ministers have led the UK since the book was borrowed, while Rishi Sunak was not born.

"It's not very common we get them returned after such a long period of time which is why I think my team at Manningtree Library were so excited to see it," she told BBC Essex.

"I haven't read the book myself but for those I have chatted to and knew that era, they recognised the book and its contents."

Ms Price said the book was brought in by relatives of the person who borrowed it in summer 1979.

"They weren't too concerned that we'd charge them or anything, and obviously we wouldn't with something that's so long ago," she added.